Elira's black gloves dropped to the floor. With every piece of fabric that fell, her hesitation climbed higher.
She looked at Jax. He was staring directly into her eyes, watching her like one would watch a performance. But there was no amusement in his gaze. No excitement. No anticipation. Nothing.
She hissed under her breath, but before she could stall any further, Jax spoke.
"Are you hesitating now? Where is all that boldness from the ball?"
Her jaw tightened. "No. I just—"
"If you're going to do it, then do it." His tone was completely flat. "Don't waste my time with dramatic pauses."
She looked at him again. Those cold, emotionless eyes staring back at her without a flicker of desire.
The realization hit her like ice water poured down her spine. 'He doesn't care. He doesn't see me as a woman, as a student he is treating me like a whore.'
Her fingers found the straps of her black gown.
'This is the price. Just pay it and walk away free.'
